VBS CEO Engages with Global Standards Leadership in Rwanda and Geneva, Championing Vanuatu's Voice on the World Stage
Championing Vanuatu's Voice on the World Stage
Port Vila, Vanuatu - 12 November 2025
Pictured (L-R): Mr. Atanas Pipite, CEO of Vanuatu Bureau of Standards (VBS) and Mr. Steve Lowes, ISO Regional Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific
VBS Represents Vanuatu at Global Standards Events
The Vanuatu Bureau of Standards (VBS) is proud to announce the successful international engagements of our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Atanas Pipite, at two pivotal global standards events in October 2025. This journey underscores VBS's growing role in shaping international standards that directly benefit the people and economy of Vanuatu.
Mr. Pipite's mission began in Kigali, Rwanda, where he represented Vanuatu at the ISO Annual Meeting 2025, a gathering of the world's leading standards bodies. Following this, he undertook a strategic visit to the headquarters of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in Geneva, Switzerland, for high-level discussions with ISO's Central Secretariat.
Strengthening Vanuatu's Future with ISO Strategy 2030
During his visit to ISO in Geneva, Mr. Pipite met with Mr. Steve Lowes, ISO's Regional Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific. The discussions focused on aligning Vanuatu's national development goals with the global ISO Strategy 2030.
"Our engagement in Geneva reaffirmed the importance of embedding international standards into the heart of our national planning," said Mr. Pipite. "For VBS, this means a clear roadmap to use standards for building resilience, promoting sustainability, and driving digital transformation."
Vanuatu Takes a Stand on Climate Change
A major highlight of the discussions was Vanuatu's active role in using standards to combat climate change. In a significant demonstration of this commitment, Mr. Pipite announced that a VBS representative will join Vanuatu's national delegation to the upcoming COP30 climate conference.
"This underscores our dedication to the global climate agenda," Mr. Pipite stated. "We are continuously working to ensure our national stakeholders can use ISO standards to support climate mitigation and green innovation."
Amplifying the Pacific Voice in Global Standards
A key outcome of these meetings was the emphasis on the unique contributions Pacific Island nations can make. Mr. Pipite advocated strongly for greater Pacific representation in ISO committees.
"Pacific Island countries have immense potential to contribute to international standards, particularly in areas like sustainable agriculture, circular economy, renewable energy, and our vital ocean-based industries," he explained.
Regional Collaboration for a Stronger Pacific
The visit also reinforced the importance of regional partnerships. Mr. Pipite highlighted the critical work of the Pacific Quality Infrastructure (PQI) network.
"Collaboration is our strength," he said. "Through initiatives like shared laboratory facilities and joint training programs under the PQI, we can achieve more together."
